Survey of Lee-Metford Mk. II*, Late Lee-Metford Mk. II and Derived Conversions

7 Feb. 2013
1:30pm

Most interesting, Superbee. What we seem to have is an old MLM mk. II that was converted to CLLE mk. I* in 1910. As part of that conversion process, it was given a new-made MLM-style receiver along with a new safety-fitted bolt. Later, the whole thing was converted again to SMLE specs. The upshot is that, though nominally born of an MLM mk. II, the rifle as currently configured has no parts -- at least no major parts -- left over from that original MLM. Can you post or PM the serial number to me, which may have carried over onto all the new parts, as follows. Nominally at least, a CLLE mk. I* could have a Metford barrel. If the CLLE conversion in 1910 retained the Metford barrel, then the new 1910 receiver would have been given that serial number. When the thing was later turned into a SMLE, the receiver's serial number may have in turn been given to the new parts -- all thereby indirectly preserving the original MLM's number.

I think this is what you are looking for. This one was a Mk. II* Metford and was converted to a Conv.II. The updates on the butt socket are interesting in that I think they just ran out of space.
Contact me if you need more info.

Attachment 40671Attachment 40670Attachment 40672Attachment 40673Attachment 40674Attachment 40675Attachment 40676

18 Feb. 2013
12:35pm

This is exactly what I'm looking for, Warren. Thanks! Can't quite make out the original serial number. Looks like 2781H. Can you confirm, please?

Thanks so much,

Coggo

Hi,I am a new member and I just got back from a local gun show with one of the rifles that you are doing research on.The barrel has a bit of rust inside so I brought it as a parts rifle.i hopefully have attched pictures.I hope these are of help to your research.

Can't quite tell: is this an 1892 rifle, please? And what is that serial number? Looks like 9217A?

Thanks,

Coggansfield

Hi,yes it is a 1892 and it does have the letter A under the serial number 9217.Have added two more clearer pictures.Thanks